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  • Mapping: Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

    Why in the news?

    • A pack of wild dogs, or Dholes, in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) have suffered severe exfoliating skin infection which is an alarming fungal and bacterial infection.

    About Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

    • Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is situated in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris District, at the intersection of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. 
    • It forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India’s first biosphere reserve, alongside Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala), Bandipur National Park (Karnataka), Mukurthi National Park, and Silent Valley.
    • The name “Mudumalai” signifies “the ancient hill range,” dating back 65 million years to the formation of the Western Ghats.
    • Flora: The reserve boasts tall grasses, including Elephant Grass, and diverse flora such as giant bamboo, Teak, and Rosewood.
    • Fauna: It is home to flagship species like the Tiger and Asian Elephant, as well as the Indian Gaur, Spotted Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, and Jungle Cat, among others.
      • With over 260 bird species, Mudumalai hosts 8% of India’s avian species, including rare birds like the Malabar grey hornbill and Malabar pied hornbill.

     

    Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole)

    Details
    Name Dhole (Cuon alpinus)
    Native Range Central, South, East, and Southeast Asia
    Distribution in India Most of India south of the Ganges, Central Indian Highlands, Western and Eastern Ghats, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Terai region of Indo-Gangetic Plain
    Other Names Asian wild dog, Asiatic wild dog, Indian wild dog, whistling dog, red dog, mountain wolf
    Conservation Status
    1. IUCN Red List: Endangered
    2. CITES: Appendix II
    3. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule 1
    Social Structure Lives in big, loosely organized groups with several breeding females
    Factors Contributing to Decline Habitat loss, loss of prey, competition with other species, persecution due to livestock predation, disease transfer from domestic dogs
    Significance Besides the tiger, it is the only large carnivore in India that is under IUCN’s ‘endangered’ category.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Which of the following are in Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve?

    (a) Neyyar, Peppara and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

    (b) Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Silent Valley National Park

    (c) Kaundinya, Gundla Brahmeswaram and Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Mukurthi National Park

    (d) Kawal and Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuaries; and Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

  • Growth in Ashwagandha Exports

    Why in the news?

    • Ashwagandha exports have surged by 8 times in the past six years, penetrating markets like the United States, Czech Republic, and Canada.
    • The Ayurvedic industry in India has been growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17%, with the industry size increasing from $3 billion in 2014 to $24 billion today.
    • Gujarat, with about 850 Ayurvedic manufacturing units, ranks fourth in the country after Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Maharashtra.
    • India leads in Ashwagandha production and export, with states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh emerging as key producers.
    • The herb is exported primarily as extracts and has gained significant traction in the United States, where it competes with Chinese Ginseng.

     

    What is Ashwagandha? 

    • Also known as Indian Ginseng or Withania somnifera, Ashwagandha belongs to a group of herbs known as ‘adaptogens’( best rejuvenating agent).
    • It is available in various forms such as extracts, powder, and raw herbs, catering to domestic and international markets.

    Medicinal Properties and Usage:

    • In treatment of rheumatic pain, inflammation of joints, nervous disorders and epilepsy.
    • Used as a tonic for hiccup, cold, cough, female disorders, as a sedative, in care of senile debility, ulcers, etc.
    • Leaves are applied for carbuncles, inflammation and swellings.  Leaf juice is useful in conjunctivitis.
    • Bark decoction is taken for asthma and applied locally to bed sores.
    • Ashwagandha and its extracts are used in the preparation of herbal tea, powders, tablets, and syrups.

    Cultivation of Ashwagandha

    • Ashwagandha-growing states: Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.
      • Being a hardy and drought-tolerant crop, Ashwagandha requires a relatively dry season throughout its growing period.
      • It is grown as late rainy season (kharif) crop between 600-1200 m altitudes.
      • It grows well in sandy loam or light red soil having pH 7.5 to 8.0 (alkaloid) with good drainage.
    • Black soil or such heavy soil is suitable for cultivation.

    With inputs from: https://agritech.tnau.ac.in/farm_enterprises/Farm%20enterprises_%20Ashwagantha.html

    PYQ:

    [2010] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Taxus tree is naturally found in the Himalayas
    2. The Taxus tree is listed in the Red Data Book.
    3. A drug called “taxol” is obtained from Taxus tree is effective against Parkinson’s disease

    Which of the above statements is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 3 only

  • India could face ‘Imported Inflation’: Asian Development Bank (ADB)

    Why in the News?

    The Asian Development Bank recently issued a cautionary note for India’s susceptibility to imported inflation due to potential rupee depreciation amidst escalating interest rates in the West.

    What is Imported Inflation?

    • Imported inflation refers to the increase in the prices of goods and services within a country caused by a rise in the cost or price of imports.
    • This phenomenon occurs when factors such as a depreciating currency, higher import costs, or increased international prices lead to elevated expenses for imported goods and services.
    • Consequently, producers may adjust their prices upward to offset these higher costs, resulting in inflationary pressures within the domestic economy.
    • This idea connects with the theory of cost-push inflation, which means that when input costs go up, it can cause prices for final products to go up too.

    Reason behind the imported inflation:

    • Capital Flows: Increased interest rates in Western economies attract foreign investors seeking higher returns, leading to capital outflows from countries like India and potentially depreciating the Indian rupee.
      • When a currency depreciates, local consumers require more of their domestic currency to procure foreign goods, consequently elevating import prices.
    • Borrowing Costs: Indian businesses and the government may face higher borrowing costs for infrastructure projects and investments if they raise funds in foreign currency-denominated international markets.
    • Inflationary Pressures: Capital outflows can pressure the Indian rupee, causing imported inflation as the cost of imported goods rises due to currency depreciation.
    • Trade Competitiveness: Exchange rate fluctuations from Western interest rate changes affect India’s trade competitiveness, impacting exports, imports, and domestic consumption.

    Back2Basics: Asian Development Bank (ADB)

    Information
    Establishment Established in 1966 as a result of the Conference on Asian Economic Cooperation held by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East.
    Headquarters Manila, Philippines
    Official Status Official United Nations Observer
    Objectives
    • Reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration.
    • Providing Loans, technical assistance, and Grants.
    • Offering “hard” loans on commercial terms primarily to middle income countries and “soft” loans with lower interest rates to poorer countries.
    • Providing direct financial assistance to private sector companies for projects with clear social benefits.
    • Maximizing development impact through policy dialogues, advisory services, and co-financing operations.
    Membership
    • 67 members, with 48 from the Asia and Pacific region.
    • Admits members of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and non-regional developed countries.
    Funding
    • Japan and United States hold the largest proportion of shares at 15.607%.
    • China holds 6.444%, India holds 6.331%, and Australia holds 5.786%.
    Sources
    • Bond issues on the world’s capital markets.
    • Members’ contributions and retained earnings from lending operations.
    • Repayment of loans.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Indian economy, demand-pull inflation can be caused/increased by which of the following?​

    1. Expansionary policies​
    2. Fiscal stimulus​
    3. Inflation-indexing wages​
    4. Higher purchasing power​
    5. Rising interest rates​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 3, 4 and 5 only

    (c) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • What is Exoatmospheric Interception?

    Why in the news?

    Israel successfully intercepted an Iranian missile outside Earth’s atmosphere using an Exoatmospheric kill vehicle.

    Israeli Air-Defence Systems


    Israel’s multi-layered air defence system, including Iron Dome, The Arrow, and David’s Sling, was activated in anticipation of the attack.

    1. IRON DOME: The short-range Iron Dome air defence system was built to intercept the kind of rockets fired by the Hamas in Gaza. Developed by state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems with US backing, it became operational in 2011. Each truck-towed unit fires radar-guided missiles to blow up short-range threats like rockets, mortars and drones in mid-air.
    2. ARROW: The long-range Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 system, developed by Israel with an Iranian missile threat in mind, is designed to intercept ballistic missiles outside the earth’s atmosphere, using a detachable warhead that collides with the target. It operates at an altitude that allows for the safe dispersal of any non-conventional warheads.
    3. DAVID’S SLING: This mid-range system is designed to shoot down ballistic missiles fired from 100 km to 200 km away. Developed and manufactured jointly by Israel’s state-owned Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and the U.S. Raytheon Co, David’s Sling is also designed to intercept aircraft, drones and cruise missiles.

    What are Exoatmospheric Missiles?

    • Exoatmospheric missiles, or anti-ballistic missiles (ABMs), operate beyond Earth’s atmosphere to intercept incoming ballistic missiles.
    • They employ advanced sensors and guidance systems to detect, track, and destroy targets in space.
    • Kinetic kill vehicles, like the Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV), rely on high-speed collisions to neutralize threats.
    • It travels at hypersonic speed.

    Working Mechanism of Exoatmospheric Missiles:

    • The EKV uses a solid rocket booster to propel itself into space.
    • Advanced sensors and onboard computers identify and track incoming threats.
    • Precise maneuvering allows the missile to navigate towards the target.
    • Impact from a high-speed collision eliminates the threat without traditional warheads, enhancing speed and accuracy.

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)”, sometimes seen in the news?

    (a) An Israeli radar system

    (b) India’s indigenous anti-missile programme

    (c) An American anti-missile system

    (d) A defence collaboration between Japan and South Korea

  • What is Shrinkflation?

    Why in the news?

    • As input prices turn inflationary, the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) segment faces the spectre of shrinking packs, impacting consumer choices and industry dynamics.

    What are FMCGs?

    • Fast-moving consumer goods, also known as consumer packaged goods, are products that are sold quickly and at a relatively low cost.
    • Examples include non-durable household goods such as packaged foods, beverages, toiletries, candies, cosmetics, over-the-counter drugs, dry goods, and other consumables.

    What is Shrinkflation?

    • Shrinkflation is a business practice where companies reduce the size or quantity of a product while keeping its price the same.

    Causes for Shrinkflation:

    1. Cost Management: It helps companies manage rising production costs, such as raw materials or labor, without sacrificing profitability.
    2. Market Competition: In competitive markets, companies may use shrinkflation to maintain their market share by keeping their prices competitive.

    Effects of Shrinkflation:

    • Consumer Perception: If consumers notice the change, it can lead to negative perceptions of the brand, loss of trust, and reduced customer loyalty.
    • Accuracy of Inflation Measurement: Shrinkflation complicates accurate measures of inflation since the price remains constant while the quantity decreases.
    • Limitations: Companies can only implement shrinkflation discreetly and for a limited number of times before consumers become aware and react negatively. Overuse can damage brand reputation.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only

    (b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation

    (c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

    (d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

  • Jiadhal River and Change of its Course

    Why in the news?

    • Climate Change is disrupting Jiadhal River’s (Dhemaji district, Assam) tranquil flow, leading to unprecedented shifts in its course and causing upheaval for residents.

    About Jiadhal River:

    • It flows through the districts of Darrang, Udalguri, and Baksa in the northeastern state of Assam.
      • It is also known Kumotiya River after flowing from Gogamukh.
    • Origin: From the Hills of Bhutan, flows through the Assam Himalayas before meandering through the plains of Assam. It is formed by the confluence of several smaller streams.
    • Major tributaries: Kolong River and the Daokao River.
    • It eventually joins the Brahmaputra River near the town of Nalbari.
    • It is known as the ‘Sorrow of Dhemaji’ for the heavy damage caused by annual floods and erosion.

    Factors leading to changes in the Jiadhal River’s Course  

    • Erosion: Flowing water gradually wears away the riverbanks and bed, causing the river to meander and change course.
    • Sediment deposition: Accumulation of sediment can create new channels or alter the flow pattern of the river.
    • Human activities: Dams, channelization, urbanization, deforestation, and mining can disrupt natural river processes, leading to changes in flow and morphology.
    • Climate change: Changes in precipitation, temperature, and glacier melt affect river flow patterns and behavior.
    • Tectonic activity: Uplift, subsidence, and faulting influence river topography and drainage patterns, leading to adjustments in course and behavior.

    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:

    1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.

    2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.

    3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] Exercise DUSTLIK

    Why in the news?

    Indian Army contingent departed for the 5th edition of Exercise DUSTLIK in Uzbekistan.

    Exercise DUSTLIK

    • Exercise DUSTLIK is an annual event alternating between India and Uzbekistan.
    • It is named after Dustlik, a town in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan.
    • The first edition of the exercise was held in 2019 near Tashkent.
    • Previous edition held in Pithoragarh, India, in February 2023.

    Objectives and Focus Areas:

    • Focus on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
    • Emphasis on special arms skills and multi-domain operations.
    • Tactical drills include establishing command posts, intelligence centers, heliborne operations, and room intervention.
    • Incorporation of combat support arms and services besides Infantry.
    • Opportunity to share Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) of joint operations.
    • Strengthening interoperability and camaraderie between soldiers of both nations.

    India’s bilateral exercises with Central Asian Countries

    Country Exercise
    Kazakhstan Ex PRABAL DOSTYK, Ex KAZIND
    Kyrgyzstan Ex KHANJAR
    Mongolia Ex NOMADIC ELEPHANT
    Tajikistan Ex  Farkhor

  • Easement Rights and Recent Supreme Court Ruling

    Why in the news?

    • The Supreme Court observed that a claimant of an Easementary Right cannot claim an Easement by necessity if there exists an alternative way to access the property owned by the claimant, known as the ‘Dominant Heritage‘.
      • The court referred to Section 13 of the Indian Easements Act, of 1882, which deals with easementary rights by necessity.

    What is Easement Right?

    • An Easement is a legal right to use someone else’s property for a specific purpose without possessing it.
    • Essentially, it’s a permission or privilege granted by the owner of one property (the servient land) to someone else (the dominant land) to use the servient land in a particular way.

    Legal backing for Easement Rights

    • Section 13 of the Indian Easements Act, 1882, serves as the cornerstone in adjudicating easementary rights disputes.
    • It mandates that such rights can only be claimed if no alternative access to the Dominant Heritage exists, providing clarity in legal proceedings.
    • Understanding terms like ‘Dominant Heritage’ (represents the property for enjoyment) and ‘Servient Heritage‘ (property over which rights are sought) is crucial in comprehending easementary rights disputes.

    Features of the Indian Easements Act, 1882:

    • Definition of Easements: The law defines what an easement is and the different types, like rights of way (to pass through someone’s land), rights to light and air, and rights to use water.
    • Acquisition of Easements: It explains how easements can be created. For example, by agreement between the parties or through long-time use.
    • Rights and Liabilities: It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the person who has the easement (the beneficiary) and the person who owns the land over which the easement exists (the servient owner). For instance, the beneficiary must not do anything to increase the burden of the easement, and the servient owner must not obstruct the use of the easement.
    • Termination of Easements: It describes the circumstances under which an easement can come to an end. For example, if the purpose for which the easement was created ceases to exist, or if the beneficiary expressly gives up their right.
    • Customary Easements: It recognizes certain easements that arise due to local customs or traditions.

    Back2Basics: Fundamental Rights vs. Legal Rights

    Fundamental Rights Legal Rights
    Source Enshrined in the Indian Constitution, specifically Part III Derived from various sources such as Legislation, contracts, Judicial decisions, etc.
    Enforcement Directly enforceable against the state through constitutional remedies like writ petitions under Article 32 Enforceable through the legal system, but may vary in enforceability depending on the nature of the right and available legal mechanisms
    Scope Typically includes rights essential for the Protection of Individual Liberty, Equality, and dignity, such as the Right to Equality, Freedom of Speech, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, etc. Encompasses a wide range of rights recognized by law, including Property Rights, Contractual Rights, Tort Rights, Family Law Rights, Labor Rights, Consumer Rights, etc.
    Nature Paramount and inviolable, subject to limited exceptions as prescribed by the Constitution Subject to limitations or restrictions imposed by law, and may be subject to changes or modifications through Legislative action or Judicial Interpretation
    Examples Right to Equality, Right to Freedom of Speech, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, etc. Right to Property, Right to Contract, Right to sue for damages, Right to Vote, etc.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] What is the position of Right to Property in India?

    (a) Legal right available to citizens only.

    (b) Legal right available to Persons only.

    (c) Fundamental Right available to citizens only

    (d) Neither Fundamental Right nor Legal Right

  • Geroscience: the Science related to Ageing

    Why in the news?

    • Dr. Daniel Belsky from Columbia University introduced the concept of “Geroscience” and develops a blood test, termed “gerozyme,” to measure aging pace by studying DNA methylation.
    • Various research groups explore drugs like Metformin and Rapamycin to target aging and enhance immunity in the elderly.

    What is Geroscience?

    • Geroscience refers to the interdisciplinary field focused on understanding the biological mechanisms of ageing and age-related diseases.
    • It involves studying various factors, including DNA methylation, enzyme activity (such as the gerozyme), socio-economic influences, and lifestyle interventions like nutrition, exercise, and music therapy.
    • It aims to develop strategies, such as drug interventions targeting specific ageing-related processes, to promote healthy ageing and combat age-related conditions like dementia.

    What is DNA Methylation?

    • DNA Methylation is a process in which methyl groups (CH3) are added to the DNA molecule.
    • This modification typically occurs at cytosine bases within the DNA sequence, often in the context of CpG dinucleotides (where cytosine is followed by guanine).
    • DNA methylation plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and maintaining genome stability.
    • It can affect various cellular processes, including embryonic development, X-chromosome inactivation, genomic imprinting, and silencing of repetitive DNA elements.
    • Aberrant DNA methylation patterns have been implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders.

    Drug Interventions in Geroscience

    • Metformin and TORC1 inhibitors show promise in targeting aging and improving immune response in seniors.
    • Research proposes rapamycin’s potential in extending longevity and combating age-related diseases.

    Impact of Socio-Economic Factors in Ageing

    • Dr. Belsky’s research reveals the influence of socioeconomic status on DNA methylation levels, highlighting the role of disadvantage in ageing.
    • Columbia Aging Centre emphasizes the role of a balanced diet in supporting brain health and reducing inflammation.
    • Healthline.com advocates for proteins, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich foods to promote healthy ageing, crucial for India’s ageing population.

    PYQ:

    [2011] At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

    1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.
    2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.
    3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Lachit Borphukan and his Legend

    Why in the news?

    • The Statue of Valour, depicting Ahom general Lachit Borphukan, has become a significant landmark in Meleng-Hollongapar, Jorhat in Assam.
    • The 125-foot statue commemorates Lachit Borphukan’s leadership in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671.

    Ahom Kingdom (1228–1826)

    • Establishment: Founded in 1228 in the Brahmaputra valley of Assam by Chaolung Sukapha.
    • Duration: Retained sovereignty for 600 years until annexed by British India in 1826 (Treaty of Yandaboo).
    • Resistance: Despite facing the Mughal Empire’s power, the Ahom Kingdom remained unconquered.
    • Political Structure: Established a new state by supressing the older system of bhuiyans (landlords).
    • Labor System: Relied on forced labor known as paiks for state functions.
    • Social Organization: Society divided into clans or khels, embracing Hinduism and Assamese language alongside tribal beliefs.
    • Cultural Patronage: Supported poets, scholars, and theater; translated Sanskrit texts into local language; composed historical chronicles called buranjis.
    • Military Strategy: King served as supreme commander; core army comprised of paiks; mastered guerrilla warfare and surprise attacks.
    • Key Forts: Included Chamdhara, Saraighat, and Simlagarh, strategically crucial for defense.
    • River Expertise: Mastered construction of boat bridges on the Brahmaputra River.
    • Legacy: Ahom Kingdom’s military prowess, cultural patronage, and political organization left a lasting impact on Assam’s history.

    Who was Lachit Borphukan?

    • Lachit Borphukan was a legendary military commander from the northeastern region of India, specifically from the state of Assam. Here are some facts related to him:
    Description
    Timeline 1622-1672
    Dynasty Ahom Dynasty
    Mughal Threat Faced the Mughal Empire’s expansion into Assam
    Battle of Saraighat
    • Led Ahom forces to victory against the Mughals in 1671;
    • Defended Assam against the Aurangzeb’s forces led by Ram Singh.
    Leadership Known for strategic brilliance and guerrilla tactics
    Legacy Revered as a symbol of Assamese pride and resistance
    Recognition
    • INS Lachit:  Indian Navy’s guided-missile destroyer named in honor;
    • Lachit Divas:  Celebrated annually on November 24th in Assam;
    • Lachit Borphukan Medal: Awarded to the best cadet from the National Defence. Academy (NDA, Pune).

     

    PYQ:

    [2015]  Who among the following founded a new city on the south bank of a tributary to river Krishna and undertook to rule his new kingdom as the agent of a deity to whom all the land south of the river Krishna was supposed to belong?

    (a) Amoghavarsha I

    (b) Ballala II

    (c) Harihara I

    (d) Prataparudra II